Apple has released iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 RC to developers today, marking the final version in the iOS 18.1 beta cycle before its scheduled public release next week. So, let’s dive in and see if Apple has added any last-minute changes in this version!
If You Want to Update to the Official Release Next Week
Even though many think iOS 18.1 RC will be the official release next week, it’s still technically considered a beta since Apple hasn’t officially launched it yet.
If you’re on iOS 18.1 Beta 7 or earlier and want to leave the beta program, you can skip the iOS 18.1 RC and wait for the official iOS 18.1 release, which is expected on Monday, October 28.
But if you’re more interested in sticking with beta versions, especially with iOS 18.2 Beta coming soon with more Apple Intelligence features, feel free to update to iOS 18.1 RC.
What’s New in iOS 18.1 RC?
It seems like iOS 18.1 RC doesn’t introduce any significant changes besides bug fixes.
https://x.com/BetaProfiles/status/1848429718850441639
Additionally, the Hearing Health features for AirPods Pro 2 can now be activated in iOS 18.1 RC (you’ll also need the latest AirPods Pro 2 firmware beta 7B5013d—installation steps are available here or the official firmware 7B19 will be released next week.).
Update: Please note that these Hearing Health features are currently only available in the US, Canada, Japan, and Hong Kong. If you live outside of these countries, even if you switch your iPhone or iPad paired with AirPods to one of these regions, the features will still remain unavailable.
- Hearing Protection uses the H2 chip to actively reduce loud, intermittent noises at up to 48,000 times per second across all listening modes (Transparency, Adaptive, and Noise Cancellation). The new algorithm allows you to still hear natural, vibrant sound at concerts.
- Hearing Test works by playing sounds at various frequencies and asking users to tap the screen when they hear something. Once the test is complete, results appear immediately and are also stored in the Health app.
- If the hearing test detects hearing loss, AirPods Pro 2 can be set up as a Personalized Hearing Aid, enhancing specific sounds you need in real time. This feature was FDA-approved back in September.
Bug Fixes in iOS 18.1 RC
- Fixes an issue in Podcasts where unplayed episodes are marked as played
- Fixes an issue where videos recorded at 4K 60 while the device is warm could experience stutter while scrubbing the video playback in Photos
- Fixes an issue where digital car keys may not unlock or start a vehicle with passive entry after restoring from a backup or transferring directly from another iPhone
- Fixes an issue where iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro models may unexpectedly restart
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That’s it! If you discover any other changes in iOS 18.1 RC, or iPadOS 18.1 RC, feel free to share with us by commenting below 
